Methods for Generating Nanoplasmoid Suspensions

ABSTRACT

Methods are provided that are useful in generating a fluid suspension of nanoplasmoid bubbles. Such methods utilize a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator in conjunction with mechanisms for applying energy to the fluid in the form of electrolytic events, pressure waves, electrical fields, and/or magnetic fields. The nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator is of modular construction that is readily adaptable to a wide variety of applications. Various applications of nanoplasmoid bubble suspensions so produced are described.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/817,433, filed Mar. 12, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/619,368, filed Jun. 9, 2017, which claimspriority U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/347,635 filed on Jun. 9,2016. These and all other referenced extrinsic materials areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definitionor use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference isinconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein,the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention is generation of plasmoids, in particular inassociation with nanobubble suspensions.

BACKGROUND

The following description includes information that may be useful inunderstanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any ofthe information provided herein is prior art or relevant to thepresently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically orimplicitly referenced is prior art.

Plasmoids are, essentially, collections of ionized atoms or molecules(i.e. a plasma) bounded by an electrical field, and consequently amagnetic field. Typically, plasmoids have an approximately cylindricalstructure, however toroidal and spherical configurations are known.Plasmoids occur naturally on an astronomical scale (for example, in thesun's corona) and on smaller scales under certain conditions (forexample, “ball lightening”). Short lived plasmoids on the centimeterscale can also be generated using conventional household items, such asmicrowave ovens.

Attempts have been made to generate stable plasmoids in a controlledfashion, particularly for potential use in fusion generators. Devices togenerate such plasmoids typically involve application of an externalfield to an annular (see U.S. Pat. No. 3,319,106, to Hertz) or coiled(see U.S. Pat. No. 4,023,065, to Koloc; U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,180 toKoloc; U.S. Pat. No. 5,015,432 to Koloc; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,041,760 toKoloc) magnetic and/or electrical field source. All publicationsidentified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as ifeach individual publication or patent application were specifically andindividually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where adefinition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistentor contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, thedefinition of that term provided herein applies and the definition ofthat term in the reference does not apply. Such approaches, however,require constant energy input (in the form of the externally appliedfield) to maintain the plasmoid. In contrast, relatively simple devicesutilizing a ring-shaped electrode have been shown to generate relativelylong-lived spherical plasmoids on a centimeter scale through capacitivedischarge (see Versteegh et al, “Long-Living Plasmoids from anAtmospheric Water Discharge” Plasma Sources Sci. and Tech. 17(2) (May2008); Dubowsky et al, “Infrared Emission Spectroscopy ofAtmospheric-Pressure Ball Plasmoids” J. Mol. Spec. 322:1 to 8 (2016)).The taught devices, however, do not show consistent performance as manydischarge events fail to produce observable plasmoids.

More recently, United States Patent Application Publication No.2014/120167 (to Lapotko et al) taught the therapeutic value of“plasmonic nanobubbles” produced by irradiation of gold nanoparticlesthat demonstrate surface plasmon resonance when exposed to certainwavelengths. Such plasmonic nanobubbles are, however, very short livedand require the use of a potentially dangerous near infrared lasersource.

It is, however, possible to generate stable nanobubbles (i.e. bubbleshaving a mean diameter of less than 1 μm) in a liquid. Such bubbles liein a size range that provides stability, as they are small enough to besubject to Brownian motion and tend to accumulate surface charges thatreduce aggregation and subsequent fusion. For example, EP PatentApplication No. 2116589 (to Shiode) describes a system that utilizes apump to force a fuel-containing liquid through a nozzle or porousstructure that is in immediate proximity to a surface that is orientedperpendicular to flow exiting the nozzle. The resulting shear forcesgenerate a suspension of nanobubbles. United States Patent ApplicationNo. 2009/051055 (to Park) utilizes a pressure-driven system that forceswater through a series of spiral and disc-shaped “net members” togenerate nanobubble suspensions. United States Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2010/038244 (to Wood et al) shows a device thatgenerates nanobubbles containing charged oxygen species using a devicethat forces fluid through a chamber containing a stator and a rotor. Thefluid moves through a set of minute holes in either the stator or therotor to generate oxygen-containing nanobubbles as the rotor spins. Theinventors claim that the device produces an electrokinetic fluid withphysical, chemical, and biological properties that are distinct fromconventional oxygenated fluids. United States Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2013/0034829 (to Choi) describes a device thatincorporates a venture to generate “nanobubbles” in a suspension usedfor oral irrigation, however the disclosed device appears to generatebubbles having a diameter of around 100 μm—which are too large to beconsidered nanobubbles. Such devices and methods, however, either failto provide true nanobubbles or fail to provide a high concentration ofnanobubbles.

PCT Application Publication No. WO2014/184585 (to Govind and Foster)describes a device that incorporates a number of different technologiesfor generation of fine bubbles connected in series to provide a singlenanobubble generating system that can, reportedly, generate “a fewhundred thousand” nanobubbles per cm³. The design of the device iscomplex, however. This is due in part to differing pressure and flowrate requirements for the interconnected technologies. U.S. Pat. No.8,317,165 (to Yamasaki et al) similarly utilizes a system of seriallyconnected bubble generators that utilize shear, pressure-solution, highspeed stirring, and/or swirling flow to generate bubble containingsuspensions. As taught, however, significant concentration of inorganicsalts must be present. Similarly, United States Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2007/0189972 (to Chiba and Takahashi) and United StatesPatent Application Publication No. 2007/0286795 (to Chiba and Takahashi)discuss methods for reducing microbubbles to nanobubbles throughapplication of various stresses (such as mechanical shear, ultrasound,and high voltage electrostatic discharge) to microbubble suspensionsthat include significant concentrations of specified salts.

PCT Application Publication No. WO2015/048904 (to Bauer) describes adevice that utilizes a series of cavitation zones separated by shearplanes to generate a nanobubble suspension. The device utilizes a seriesof notched discs arranged at intervals along a central rod, with thesharp-edged notches offset from each other on each pair of such discs.In some embodiments an electrical potential is applied to an insulatedrod that is placed within the liquid flow in order to alter the zetapotential of the nanobubbles so generated. The inventors state that thenanobubble suspension generated by the device, which can contain up toabout 5×10⁸ nanobubbles per mL, has “increased paramagnetic qualities”and an increased ORP relative to untreated water.

Thus, there is still a need for methods, systems, and/or devices thatcan generate small plasmoids, such as plasmoids having a major diameterof less than about 1 μm.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods inwhich a nanoplasmoids are generated in a fluid. Gases used to generatesuch nanoplasmoids can be supplied to or generated from the fluid (forexample, by electrolysis). Systems and devices can include a source ofenergy for the generation of plasmoids (such as a microwave, radiofrequency, or ultrasound source) and a modular shearing section arrangedin a flow path of the fluid. The modular shearing section can bearranged as a series of individual shearing modules or slices along acommon flow path, and can be expanded to accommodate different scales ofoperation. Such a modular arrangement advantageously simplifiesreconfiguration and/or redesign of the device (for example, byincorporation of new shearing modules or slices) without the need forredesign.

One embodiment of the inventive concept is a system for generating ananobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension, which includes an electrolytic cell,a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator configured to form a suspension of asecond fluid in a first fluid wherein elements of the second fluid inthe suspension have a mean diameter of less than 1 μm, and that isfluidically coupled to the electrolytic cell, and a source of a pressuredifferential that is in fluid communication with the electrolytic celland the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator. The source of the pressuredifferential is positioned and configured to move the first fluidthrough the system. In some embodiments the first fluid is a liquid andthe second fluid is a gas. In some embodiments the system can include areservoir that receives a nanoplasmoid bubble suspension from thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator.

In some embodiments the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator includes afirst vortex mixing plate that includes a first central circular cavityand a first aperture in fluid communication with the first centralcircular cavity, where the first aperture is configured as an asymmetricfolium having a first narrow terminus and where the first narrowterminus is oriented in a first radial direction relative to the firstcentral circular cavity. It can also include a shear mixing plate thatincludes a second aperture that is in fluid communication with the firstcentral circular cavity, where the second aperture includes a secondnarrow terminus and where the second narrow terminus is fluidicallycoupled to a shear mixing segment. Such a shear mixing segment caninclude a first shear region that includes a first narrow inlet, a firstexpansion region, and a first narrowed outlet, along with a second shearregion that includes a second narrow inlet fluidically coupled to thefirst narrow outlet, a second expansion region, and a second narrowoutlet. It can also include a second vortex mixing plate that includes asecond central circular cavity and a third aperture in fluidcommunication with the first shear mixing plate and the second centralcircular cavity, where the third aperture is configured as an asymmetricfolium having a third narrow terminus and the third narrow terminus isoriented in a second radial direction relative to the second centralcircular cavity. It can also include a third center vortex plate thatincludes a third central circular cavity and a fourth aperture in fluidcommunication with the second central circular cavity and the thirdcentral circular cavity, where the fourth aperture is configured as anasymmetric folium having a fourth narrow terminus and the fourth narrowterminus is oriented in a third radial direction relative to the thirdcentral circular cavity, and where the third radial direction is inopposition to the second radial direction. It can also include an inletplate in fluid communication with a source of a first fluid, a source ofa second fluid, and the first vortex mixing plate.

In some embodiments the shear mixing plate includes a plurality of shearmixing segments, where the plurality of shear mixing segments isserially arranged such that, with the exception of a terminal shearmixing segment, each of the second narrow outlets is fluidically coupledto the first narrow outlet of a subsequent one of the plurality of shearmixing segments, and wherein the plurality of shear mixing segments arearranged in a spiral fashion.

In some embodiments the first vortex mixing plate is juxtaposed with afirst distribution plate comprising a first port, and wherein the firstdistribution plate is juxtaposed with the shear mixing plate. In otherembodiments the shear mixing plate is juxtaposed with a seconddistribution plate comprising a second port, and wherein the seconddistribution plate is juxtaposed with the second vortex mixing plate. Instill other embodiments the second vortex mixing plate is juxtaposedwith a third distribution plate comprising a third port, and wherein thethird distribution plate is juxtaposed with the third vortex mixingplate.

In some embodiments of the inventive concept the third center mixingplate is in fluid communication with a nozzle. In such embodiments thenozzle includes an expansion chamber that is in fluid communication withthe third center mixing plate, a nozzle outlet, and a centralconstriction interposed between the expansion chamber and the nozzleoutlet.

Systems of the inventive concept can include a field source configuredto generate a field that intersects the first fluid. Such a field sourcecan be an electrical field source and/or a magnetic field source. Such asystem can include a controller that is communicatively coupled to thefield source and configured to modulate the field (for example,application of a waveform).

Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a system for generating ananobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension that includes a pressure transducer,a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator configured to form a suspension of asecond fluid in a first fluid, and that is fluidically coupled to thepressure transducer, and a source of a pressure differential that is influid communication with the pressure transducer and thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator, where the source of the pressuredifferential is positioned and configured to move the first fluidthrough the system. In such a system the first fluid can be a liquidsand the second fluid can be a gas. In some embodiments the systeminclude reservoir that receives a nanoplasmoid bubble suspension fromthe nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator.

In such a system the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator can include afirst vortex mixing plate that includes a first central circular cavityand a first aperture in fluid communication with the first centralcircular cavity, where the first aperture is configured as an asymmetricfolium having a first narrow terminus and where the first narrowterminus is oriented in a first radial direction relative to the firstcentral circular cavity. It can also include a shear mixing plate thatincludes a second aperture that is in fluid communication with the firstcentral circular cavity, where the second aperture includes a secondnarrow terminus and where the second narrow terminus is fluidicallycoupled to a shear mixing segment. Such a shear mixing segment caninclude a first shear region that includes a first narrow inlet, a firstexpansion region, and a first narrowed outlet, along with a second shearregion that includes a second narrow inlet fluidically coupled to thefirst narrow outlet, a second expansion region, and a second narrowoutlet. It can also include a second vortex mixing plate that includes asecond central circular cavity and a third aperture in fluidcommunication with the first shear mixing plate and the second centralcircular cavity, where the third aperture is configured as an asymmetricfolium having a third narrow terminus and the third narrow terminus isoriented in a second radial direction relative to the second centralcircular cavity. It can also include a third center vortex plate thatincludes a third central circular cavity and a fourth aperture in fluidcommunication with the second central circular cavity and the thirdcentral circular cavity, where the fourth aperture is configured as anasymmetric folium having a fourth narrow terminus and the fourth narrowterminus is oriented in a third radial direction relative to the thirdcentral circular cavity, and where the third radial direction is inopposition to the second radial direction. It can also include an inletplate in fluid communication with a source of a first fluid, a source ofa second fluid, and the first vortex mixing plate.

In some embodiments the shear mixing plate includes a plurality of shearmixing segments, where the plurality of shear mixing segments isserially arranged such that, with the exception of a terminal shearmixing segment, each of the second narrow outlets is fluidically coupledto the first narrow outlet of a subsequent one of the plurality of shearmixing segments, and wherein the plurality of shear mixing segments arearranged in a spiral fashion.

In some embodiments the first vortex mixing plate is juxtaposed with afirst distribution plate comprising a first port, and wherein the firstdistribution plate is juxtaposed with the shear mixing plate. In otherembodiments the shear mixing plate is juxtaposed with a seconddistribution plate comprising a second port, and wherein the seconddistribution plate is juxtaposed with the second vortex mixing plate. Instill other embodiments the second vortex mixing plate is juxtaposedwith a third distribution plate comprising a third port, and wherein thethird distribution plate is juxtaposed with the third vortex mixingplate.

In some embodiments of the inventive concept the third center mixingplate is in fluid communication with a nozzle. In such embodiments thenozzle includes an expansion chamber that is in fluid communication withthe third center mixing plate, a nozzle outlet, and a centralconstriction interposed between the expansion chamber and the nozzleoutlet.

Systems of the inventive concept can include a field source configuredto generate a field that intersects the first fluid. Such a field sourcecan be an electrical field source and/or a magnetic field source. Such asystem can include a controller that is communicatively coupled to thefield source and configured to modulate the field (for example,application of a waveform).

Such a system can include a frequency generator that is communicativelycoupled to the pressure transducer and configured to transmit afrequency (e.g. an ultrasonic frequency) to the pressure transducer.Such a system can include a second controller that is communicativelycoupled to the frequency generator and configured to modulate thefrequency (such as application of a waveform).

Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method of preparing abeverage that includes nanoplasmoid bubbles, using a system as describedabove. In such an embodiment the first fluid can include water, and thesecond fluid can be a gas derived from electrolysis.

Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method of preparing atherapeutic suspension that includes nanoplasmoid bubbles, using asystem as described above. In such an embodiment the first fluid caninclude water, and the second fluid can be a gas derived fromelectrolysis.

Another embodiment of the inventive concept is a method of treating askin condition that includes providing a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidsuspension, and contacting an affected skin area with thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension on a treatment schedule effective totreat the skin condition (such as topical fungal infections, wounds,wrinkles, abnormally dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, and/or skincarcinoma). Such a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension is provided in areservoir configured for immersion of at least the affected skin area.The treatment schedule includes contacting the affected skin area withthe nanobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension for a period of at least 20minutes (or, alternatively, 5 minutes to two hours), at a frequency offrom three times a day to once a month (or, alternatively, four times aday to once a month). In some embodiments such treatments can continuefor 30 to 90 days.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict embodiments of a system of the inventive conceptthat include an electrolytic cell. FIG. 1A depicts such a system where apump is interposed between an electrolytic cell and ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator. FIG. 1B depicts such a system wherean electrolytic cell is interposed between a pump and ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator.

FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a system of the inventive concept thatincludes a transducer and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator.

FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a system of the inventive concept thatincludes a magnetic field source and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator.

FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment of a system of the inventive concept thatincludes an electrical field source and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator.

FIG. 5 depicts a nanoplasmoid bubble as produced by systems and methodsof the inventive concept.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a vortex mixing plate of ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive concept. FIG. 6Adepicts a cross section of a vortex mixing plate. FIG. 6B depicts anorthogonal view of a vortex mixing plate.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict an exemplary shear mixing plate of ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive concept. FIG. 7Adepicts a cross section of the exemplary shear mixing plate. FIG. 7Bdepicts an orthogonal view of the exemplary shear mixing plate.

FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary shear mixing plate with a plurality ofcircular apertures arranged in linear groups,

FIG. 9 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 11 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 12 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 13 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 14 depicts an alternative shear mixing plate of the inventiveconcept with a single of aperture.

FIGS. 15A and 15B depict distribution plates of ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive concept. FIG. 15Adepicts a distribution plate with a central aperture. FIG. 15B depicts adistribution plate with a peripheral aperture.

FIGS. 16A and 16B depict an inlet plate of a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator of the inventive concept. FIG. 17A depicts a cross section ofthe inlet plate. FIG. 17B depicts an orthogonal view of the inlet plate.

FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C depict a nozzle of a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator of the inventive concept. FIG. 17A depicts a view through anexpansion chamber of a nozzle. FIG. 17B depicts a side view of a nozzle.FIG. 17C depicts an orthogonal view of a nozzle.

FIG. 18 depicts an orthogonal, exploded view of an exemplarynanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive complex. Theexemplary nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator is configured as with aduplicate arrangement of mixing and distribution plates, arranged inmirror symmetry around a single inlet plate.

FIG. 19 depicts orthogonal, exploded views of an alternativenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive concept. The upperportion of the figure depicts a first portion of thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator that includes vortex mixing platearranged in fluidic communication with a series of distinctive shearmixing plates, which in turn are in fluidic communication with a nozzleof the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator. The lower portion of thefigure depicts a second portion of the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generatorthat includes a series of shear mixing plates that are in fluidiccommunication with the vortex mixing plate depicted in the upper portionof the figure, a nozzle of the inventive concept, positioned at the

FIG. 20 depicts an assembled nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of theinventive concept.

FIGS. 21A and 21B depict the effect of treatment of distilled waterusing a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventive concept. FIG.21A depicts results of particle characterization studies of distilledwater prior to treatment. FIG. 21B depicts results of particlecharacterization studies of distilled water following treatment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Systems, devices and methods are described that generate nanoplasmoids(i.e. plasmoids having a diameter of 1 μm or less across a major axis).A nanoplasmoid so generated within or encapsulated by a nanobubble (i.e.a bubble having a diameter or less than about 1 μm) forms a nanoplasmoidbubble (i.e. a nanobubble currently or formerly containing ananoplasmoid). Systems and devices for generating nanoplasmoid bubblesinclude a nanobubble generator, a field source, and a device forgenerating a pressure differential that moves a fluid through the systemor device. In some embodiments the fluid is recirculated through thesystem or device. Suitable field sources include an electrolytic cell,an electrical field generator, a magnetic field generator, and anultrasound source. Application of a field generated by a field source toa fluid undergoing nanobubble generation results in the formation ofnanoplasmoid bubbles formed from a nanobubble that incorporates one ormore nanoplasmoid(s). In a preferred embodiment nanoplasmoids sogenerated have a toroidal configuration.

Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventivesubject matter will become more apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanyingdrawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

One should appreciate that the systems, devices, and methods describedherein provide a safe, effective, and efficient method for generatingnanoplasmoids, nanoplasmoid bubbles, and/or nanobubbles of controlledsize and composition, which have been shown to have numerous usefulapplications described below.

In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients,properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth,used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are tobe understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.”Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth inthe written description and attached claims are approximations that canvary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by aparticular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parametersshould be construed in light of the number of reported significantdigits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstandingthat the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scopeof some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numericalvalues set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely aspracticable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of theinvention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from thestandard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the descriptionherein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise.

The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve asa shorthand method of referring individually to each separate valuefalling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, eachindividual value with a range is incorporated into the specification asif it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein canbe performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein orotherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and allexamples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respectto certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminatethe invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of theinvention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should beconstrued as indicating any non-claimed element essential to thepractice of the invention.

Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the inventiondisclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each groupmember can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combinationwith other members of the group or other elements found herein. One ormore members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group forreasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion ordeletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the groupas modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markushgroups used in the appended claims.

The following discussion provides many example embodiments of theinventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a singlecombination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter isconsidered to include all possible combinations of the disclosedelements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and asecond embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subjectmatter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A,B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term“coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which twoelements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirectcoupling (in which at least one additional element is located betweenthe two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with”are used synonymously.

Systems and methods of the inventive concept allow for the generation ofnanoplasmoids in fluid suspensions, using virtually any gas at thenano-scale. This is distinct from conventional nanobubble generation,and utilizes a combination of processes to induce charge and plasmaformation to effectively and efficiently generate suspensions of thesenanoscopic plasmoids, for use in a variety of applications.

Embodiments of the inventive concept can accomplish this nanoplasmoidgeneration using microwave and/or radio frequencies (preferably incombination), coupled with application of electrical energy (e.g.amperage and/or voltage). For example, microwave energy can be appliedto a fluid being processed at one or more wavelength(s) ranging from 1mm to 1 meter. Similarly, radio frequencies can be applied to a fluidbeing processed at one or more frequency(ies) ranging from 3 kHz to 300kHz. In some embodiments electromagnetic energy is applied atfrequencies ranging from 3 kHz to 600 MHz, and/or octaves of frequencieswithin this range. The amplitude and/or the wavelength of appliedmicrowave and/or radio frequency energy can be modulated duringapplication. Such a modulation can be patterned, for example as aregular pattern of increasing or decreasing amplitude and/or frequency.Such a regular pattern can describe a continuous ramp or waveform, orcan be intermittent (e.g. as bursts or pulses). Suitable waveformsinclude sine waves, step waves, and superwaves. Suitable bursts orpulses can range in duration from 1 μsec to 5 or more minutes. In apreferred embodiment such microwave and/or radio frequency energy isapplied to the fluid as it flows past one or more suitable emitters. Insuch embodiments the pattern utilized for modulating such microwaveand/or radio frequency energy can be modulated to adjust for changes inthe flow rate of the fluid.

Nanoplasmoids of the inventive concept can be generated while passingthrough one or more (e.g. a series) of shearing zones, wherenanotization occurs. Devices and systems of the inventive conceptprovide a capacity for a varied or indefinite number of shearing zonesto be configured together to increase the travel of the fluid throughthe zone as well as allowing for implementation of more than oneshearing mechanism. This can be accomplished by coupling individualshearing modules together along a common fluid flow path. Such avariable configuration advantageously permits incorporation of differentand/or new shear modules, and allows new shearing designs to be addedwithout changing or redesigning the entire system or device. Such aconfiguration also allows for ease of disassembly for cleaning and/orservice of the device or system.

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or morereservoir(s), water reaction chamber(s), and/or section(s), where fluidis stored and/or mixed with a gas that is intended for nanoplasmoidgeneration. In some embodiments such a gas or gases can be generatedfrom the fluid itself, for example using electrolytic and/orsonocavitational methods. In some embodiments the stored fluids are ableto be recirculated through the device, allowing for generation of higherconcentrations of the nanoplasmoids to be generated. In otherembodiments it can be a pass-through or single pass section.

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or moreplasma generating mechanism(s) or section(s). Suitable plasma generatingmechanisms can include a microwave source, a radio frequency source, anacoustic energy source, and/or an electrolytic device. Such a mechanismallows for the generation of nanoplasmoids without resorting toexcessive heat and/or pressure, resulting in generation of charged gasthat can be sheared, while being charged. A plasma generating mechanismrelies on an individual element as described above or a combination ofsuch elements charge gasses being introduced. In aqueous applications italso can allow for the splitting of water and generation or liberationof gasses from the water itself. Such a plasma generating section canprovide amplification of sonocavitation-derived plasmoids generated in ashearing mechanism or section. Surface charges generated in such asection can provide stable plasmoids.

Accordingly, systems and devices of the inventive concept can includeone or more generator cell(s) and or transformer(s). Suitable generatorcells include microwave, radio frequency, acoustic wave, and/orelectromagnetic field producing mechanisms or combination thereof thatpower the plasma generating mechanism. Success has been achieved ingenerating plasmoids using such elements, both individually in someembodiments or in combination in others. In some aqueous embodimentsthis allows for the splitting of the water and generation of hydrogenand oxygen, and charging such gasses to produce plasmoids.

As noted above, preferred embodiments of the inventive concept canprocess a fluid flow. Such embodiments can include a fluid circulatingsystem. The fluid circulating system can include a pump or pumps usedpressurize or create vacuum, and serve propel the fluids or draw thefluids into cavitation inducing and/or shearing zone(s) of the system ordevice. Plasmoids have been successfully generated using a pressuresystem, a vacuum system, and a combination of the two in push/pull andpull/push arrangements. This allows for the fluids to be treated in asingle pass or to be re-circulated. It also allows for oils to beintroduced for the manufacture of nanoplasmoid emulsions.

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or moreshearing zones. Such shearing zones can be arranged as a series ofmodules, providing for an expandable, variably configurable shearingmechanism. For example, such a configurable shearing mechanism can bearranged as a series of cavitation inducing modules or slices that areable to coupled in series (e.g., by being stacked and coupled together,for example by bolts or applied pressure) along a fluid flow path inorder to provide a series of shearing zones in a contiguous chamber,section, and/or tunnel. Such shearing zones allow fluids to be forcedinto a rotation and counter-rotation-like turbulence, inducing furthersize reduction of the plasmoids generated using the plasma generatingmechanism. Sonocavitation can also produced in such a portion of thesystem or device. In embodiments in which the shearing zone is made upof individual modules or slices that, when combined, produce the entiregeometry of the section, modular design allows for continuingdevelopment testing and introduction of new or novel geometries withoutresorting to the design and creation of an entirely new device. Thelength of such a shearing zone can be increased or decreased as thedesired output's needs require. This portion of the system or deviceprovides not only shearing but also nanotizing and mixing the fluidsgasses (and, in the case of nanoplasmoid emulsions, an oil).

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or moreprocessors or controllers. Suitable processors or controllers include aprinted circuit board (PCB Board), programmable logic control timingand/or switching mechanisms, and analog timing and/or switchingmechanisms. Such a controller or control module allows for bothmonitoring and real time feedback and adjustment or control of thevarious components, including modulation of frequency, amplitude, signalvoltage, amperage, pressure, flow rate, etc. Nanoplasmoids have beenproduced using systems and devices having analog or digital automaticcontrollers, as well as devices and systems with a programmable timerswitch. Such controllers can allow for intelligent programming andinteraction between various parts and or components or systems.

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or more gasmixing mechanisms. Such gas mixing mechanisms allow the desired gas(ses)to be introduced while being mixed into the fluid. Suitable mechanismsinclude but are not limited to venture mixers, static mixers,venturi/static mixer combinations, nanobubbler(s), a structuringvortexer, tubes or tubules, and/or one or more membranes(s). Thismechanism or series of mechanisms allows for mixing to occur bythoroughly mixing gas into the fluid either in a tank or reservoir orseries of tanks or reservoirs or via a mixing section in a continuousflow operation.

Systems and devices of the inventive concept can include one or more“rocket” structuring mixing nozzle(s). Such a nozzle can be coupledwithin the fluid flow path to either the beginning or the end of theshearing section. Alternatively, such a nozzle can be coupled within thefluid flow path at both the beginning of the shearing section and asecond nozzle coupled within the fluid flow path at the end of theshearing section. In appearance and function the rocket structuringmixing nozzle is similar to the outlet nozzle of a conventional liquidrocket engine (without ignition). Such a nozzle sends the resultingfluid into, out of, or into then out of the shearing section of thedevice in a vortex mixing pattern. This has the effect of structuring orordering the fluids and the nanotized plasma gasses on the way into orout of the device.

One embodiment of a system of the inventive concept is shown in FIG. 1A.As shown, the system includes a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator (140)and an electrolytic cell (130), which is in turn connected to a powersupply (120). Fluid, impelled by a pump (110) that provides a pressuredifferential, moves through the electrolytic cell (130) and ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator (140), which can optionally include aninput (150) for a gas. Suitable electrolytic cells can include a cathodeand an anode, which are arranged so that the products of electrolysis(for example, O₂, H₂, OH−, OH., H+, etc.) are released into thecirculating fluid. Such species can react with one another to generateother species, for example peroxides. In some embodiments anelectrolyte, such as NaCl, can be included in the fluid and be actedupon by the electrolytic cell to produce species derived from theelectrolyte (such as HCl, NaOH, Cl₂, etc.). In some embodiments of theinventive concept the system or device can include a sensor that detectsor quantifies species produced by the electrolytic cell, and acontroller that receives data from the sensor. In such embodiments thepresence and/or concentration of a product of electrolysis can bemonitored using the sensor, with such data monitored by the controllerwhich in turn modulates the power supplied to the electrolytic cell inorder to maintain the rate of electrolysis within a desired range. Forexample, a pH monitor can be used to determine the amount of OH− and/orH+ present in the circulating fluid, and the power supplied to theelectrolytic cell modulated to maintain the pH within a desired range.Products of the electrolysis of electrolytes or salts present in thecirculating fluid can be monitored in a similar fashion.

An electrolytic cell utilized in a system of the inventive concept canhave any suitable configuration. For example, an electrolytic cell canbe configured as a reservoir that includes at least one anode and atleast one cathode, and can include features that increase the surfacearea of the anode and/or cathode. For example, an anode and/or cathodecan be provided with one or more holes, configured as a mesh, have aroughened surface, and or include a nanocoating. Such an anode orcathode can be configured as plate, coil, rod, disc, sphere, or anysuitable shape. Alternatively, an electrolytic cell can be configured asa pipe or tube through which fluid moves in passing through the system.In such an embodiment the pipe or tube can include one or more anodeand/or cathode. Such anodes and cathodes can be in the form of anelectrode that intrudes into the path of fluid flow. Alternatively, suchanodes and cathodes can be integrated into or form part of a wall of thepipe or tube. In still other embodiments such anodes and cathodes canhave a cylindrical conformation similar to that of the pipe or tube, buthaving a smaller diameter and positioned centrally within the pipe ortube. In still other embodiments anodes and/or cathodes can beincorporated into or form part of a mixing plate (such as thosedescribed below), such that cavitation and electrolysis are performedessentially simultaneously. In a preferred embodiment the electrolyticcell is provided as a coiled pipe or tube having a first diameter,within which at least one anode and at least one cathode are provided inthe form of cylinders having second and third diameters that are smallerthan the first diameter. In such an embodiment an anode and cathode paircan be provided as set of nesting cylinders arranged around a commoncentral axis, with one of either the anode or cathode having a smallerdiameter than the other member of the pair.

The cathode and/or anode of the electrolytic cell can be arranged sothat species produced by only one of the cathode or anode are releasedinto circulating fluid. It should be appreciated that such species,notably charged species, can accumulate on the surface of nanobubblesand nanobubble plasmoids and enhance stability through charge repulsion.Electrodes of the electrolytic cell can be made of any suitablematerial, including stainless steel, copper, bronze, gold, silver,platinum, and conductive polymers. Such materials can enter thecirculating fluid during electrolytic processing and be subsequentlyintegrated into nanoplasmoid bubbles. In some embodiments the outputfrom the nanobubble generator is coupled to the fluid input of theelectrolytic cell, channeling some or all of the output back through thesystem. An alternative arrangement is shown in FIG. 1B, in which anelectrolytic cell (130) is placed between a pump (110) or other sourceof pressure differential and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator (140).

As noted above, in some embodiments the nanobubble generator is providedwith a gas in addition to the circulating fluid. Such a gas can beprovided from a reservoir (such as a pressurized tank) or generated insitu (for example, by electrolysis or treatment of air with zeolites).Suitable gases include air, O₂, H₂, N₂, CO, CO₂, HOH, NO, and noblegases. Such gases can be incorporated into nanobubbles and hence intonanoplasmoids of nanoplasmoid bubbles.

Another embodiment of a system of the inventive concept is shown in FIG.2. As shown, the system includes a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator(140) and a pressure transducer (160) that is coupled to a frequencygenerator (150). Such a frequency generator (150) can provide anoscillating electrical potential to the transducer (160), which in turnapplies corresponding pressure waves to fluid circulating through thesystem. The oscillating electrical potential can be provided in anysuitable waveform, for example as a sinusoidal or sigmoidal wavefunction, a stepped wave function, or a combination thereof. Such awaveform would be imparted, at least in part, to the correspondingpressure wave provided by the transducer. In a preferred embodiment theoscillating electrical potential results in corresponding pressure wavesgenerated at ultrasonic frequencies. Suitable transducers includecontact transducers (for example, vibrating plates) and immersion orprobe transducer that are introduced into the path of the flowing fluid.Such transducers can utilize piezoelectric and/or magnetostrictiveelements in order to transform the applied electrical potential to apressure wave. A power supply (120) is provided that supplies power tocomponents such as a pump (110), frequency generator (155), and/ortransducer (160).

Fluid, impelled by a pump (110) that provides a pressure differential,moves through or past the transducer (160) and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator (140), which can optionally include an input (150) for a gas.Suitable gases include air, O₂, H₂, N₂, CO, CO₂, HOH, NO, and noblegases. Such a gas can be provided from a reservoir (such as apressurized tank) or generated in situ (for example, by electrolysis ortreatment of air with zeolites). Suitable gases include air, O₂, H₂, andN₂. Such gases can be incorporated into nanobubbles and hence intonanoplasmoids of nanoplasmoid bubbles. In some embodiments of theinventive concept the system or device can include a sensor (such as amicrophone) that detects or characterizes the pressure waves applied bythe transducer sensor. In such embodiments characteristics (such asamplitude, frequency, etc.) of the pressure waves can be monitored usingthe sensor, with such data monitored by the controller which in turnmodulates the frequency generator in order to maintain the pressurewaves within a desired range or set of ranges. Similarly, temperature ofthe fluid in the system can be monitored (for example, suing athermometer or infrared sensor) and temperature data supplied to acontroller that can modulate the frequency generator and/or activate acooling system to maintain temperature of the fluid within a desiredrange. Such a cooling system (not shown in FIG. 2) can be acompression-based cooling system, a thermoelectric cooling system, anevaporative cooling system, or a combination of these.

Another embodiment of a system of the inventive concept is shown in FIG.3. As shown, the system includes a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator(140), a source of a magnetic field (170), and an electrolytic cell(130). A power supply (120) is provided that supplies power to a pump(110) and/or to the magnetic field source (170), if needed. Fluid,impelled by a pump (110) that provides a pressure differential, movesthrough a magnetic field applied by the magnetic field source (170), anelectrolytic cell (130), and a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator (140),which can optionally include an input (150) for a gas. Suitable sourcesfor the magnetic field can be permanent magnets and/or electromagnets.In embodiments that incorporate an electromagnet, a controller can beused to modulate the applied magnetic field. In such embodiments themagnetic field can be applied continuously, periodically, and/or variedin a systematic manner, for example applying the magnetic field atvarying strengths and/or polarization over time. Such variations can beperiodic, for example with magnetic field strength and/or polarizationoscillating as a waveform. Suitable waveforms include sinusoidal orsigmoidal waves, stepped wave functions, or combinations thereof.

As noted above, such embodiments that include a magnetic field sourcecan include an electrolytic cell. Suitable electrolytic cells caninclude a cathode and an anode, which are arranged so that the productsof electrolysis (for example, O₂, H₂, OH−, OR, H+, etc.) are releasedinto the circulating fluid. Such species can react with one another togenerate other species, for example peroxides. In some embodiments anelectrolyte, such as NaCl, can be included in the fluid and be actedupon by the electrolytic cell to produce species derived from theelectrolyte (such as HCl, NaOH, Cl₂, etc.). In some embodiments of theinventive concept the system or device can include a sensor that detectsor quantifies species produced by the electrolytic cell, and acontroller that receives data from the sensor. In such embodiments thepresence and/or concentration of a product of electrolysis can bemonitored using the sensor, with such data monitored by the controllerwhich in turn modulates the power supplied to the electrolytic cell inorder to maintain the rate of electrolysis within a desired range. Forexample, a pH monitor can be used to determine the amount of OH− and/orH+ present in the circulating fluid, and the power supplied to theelectrolytic cell modulated to maintain the pH within a desired range.Products of the electrolysis of electrolytes or salts present in thecirculating fluid can be monitored in a similar fashion.

The cathode and/or anode of the electrolytic cell can be arranged sothat species produced by only one of the cathode or anode are releasedinto circulating fluid. It should be appreciated that such species,notably charged species, can accumulate on the surface of nanobubblesand nanobubble plasmoids and enhance stability through charge repulsion.Electrodes of the electrolytic cell can be made of any suitablematerial, including stainless steel, copper, bronze, gold, silver,platinum, and conductive polymers. Such materials can enter thecirculating fluid during electrolytic processing and be subsequentlyintegrated into nanoplasmoid bubbles. In some embodiments the outputfrom the nanobubble generator is coupled to the fluid input of theelectrolytic cell, channeling some or all of the output back through thesystem.

An electrolytic cell utilized in a system of the inventive concept canhave any suitable configuration. For example, an electrolytic cell canbe configured as a reservoir that includes at least one anode and atleast one cathode. Such an anode or cathode can be configured as plate,coil, rod, disc, sphere, or any suitable shape. Alternatively, anelectrolytic cell can be configured as a pipe or tube through whichfluid moves in passing through the system. In such an embodiment thepipe or tube can include one or more anode and/or cathode. Such anodesand cathodes can be in the form of an electrode that intrudes into thepath of fluid flow. Alternatively, such anodes and cathodes can beintegrated into or form part of a wall of the pipe or tube. In stillother embodiments such anodes and cathodes can have a cylindricalconformation similar to that of the pipe or tube, but having a smallerdiameter and positioned centrally within the pipe or tube. In apreferred embodiment the electrolytic cell is provided as a coiled pipeor tube having a first diameter, within which at least one anode and atleast one cathode are provided in the form of cylinders having secondand third diameters that are smaller than the first diameter. In such anembodiment an anode and cathode pair can be provided as set of nestingcylinders arranged around a common central axis, with one of either theanode or cathode having a smaller diameter than the other member of thepair. In some embodiments such an electrolytic cell can be provided with2 more sets of concentrically arranged anode/cathode pairs. It should beappreciated that the polarity of an electrical potential applied to ananode/cathode pair of an electrolytic cell of a system of the inventiveconcept can be reversed while in use (e.g. through the application ofelectrical potential as a waveform).

As noted above, in some embodiments the nanobubble generator is providedwith a gas in addition to the circulating fluid. Such a gas can beprovided from a reservoir (such as a pressurized tank) or generated insitu (for example, by electrolysis or treatment of air with zeolites).Suitable gases include air, O₂, H₂, N₂, CO, CO₂, HOH, NO, and noblegases. Such gases can be incorporated into nanobubbles and hence intonanoplasmoids of nanoplasmoid bubbles.

Another embodiment of a system of the inventive concept is shown in FIG.4. As shown, the system includes a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator(140), a source of an electrical field (180), and an electrolytic cell(130). A power supply (120) is provided that can supply power to anelectrolytic cell (130), an electrical field source (180), and/or a pump(110). Fluid, impelled by a pump (110) that provides a pressuredifferential, moves the electrical field generated by the electricalfield source (180), an electrolytic cell (130), and ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator (140), which can optionally include aninput (150) for a gas. Suitable sources for the electrical field can beplates (such as a capacitor), coils, and other electrode configurations.A controller can be used to modulate the applied electrical field. Insuch embodiments the electrical field can be applied continuously,periodically, and/or varied in a systematic manner, for example applyingthe electrical field at varying strengths and/or polarization over time.Such variations can be periodic, for example with electrical fieldstrength and/or polarization oscillating as a waveform. Suitablewaveforms include sinusoidal or sigmoidal waves, stepped wave functions,or combinations thereof.

As noted above, such embodiments that include an electrical field sourcecan include an electrolytic cell. Suitable electrolytic cells caninclude a cathode and an anode, which are arranged so that the productsof electrolysis (for example, O₂, H₂, OH−, OR, H+, etc.) are releasedinto the circulating fluid. Such species can react with one another togenerate other species, for example peroxides. In some embodiments anelectrolyte, such as NaCl, can be included in the fluid and be actedupon by the electrolytic cell to produce species derived from theelectrolyte (such as HCl, NaOH, Cl₂, etc.). In some embodiments of theinventive concept the system or device can include a sensor that detectsor quantifies species produced by the electrolytic cell, and acontroller that receives data from the sensor. In such embodiments thepresence and/or concentration of a product of electrolysis can bemonitored using the sensor, with such data monitored by the controllerwhich in turn modulates the power supplied to the electrolytic cell inorder to maintain the rate of electrolysis within a desired range. Forexample, a pH monitor can be used to determine the amount of OH− and/orH+ present in the circulating fluid, and the power supplied to theelectrolytic cell modulated to maintain the pH within a desired range.Products of the electrolysis of electrolytes or salts present in thecirculating fluid can be monitored in a similar fashion.

The cathode and/or anode of the electrolytic cell can be arranged sothat species produced by only one of the cathode or anode are releasedinto circulating fluid. It should be appreciated that such species,notably charged species, can accumulate on the surface of nanobubblesand nanobubble plasmoids and enhance stability through charge repulsion.Electrodes of the electrolytic cell can be made of any suitablematerial, including stainless steel, copper, bronze, gold, silver,platinum, and conductive polymers. Such materials can enter thecirculating fluid during electrolytic processing and be subsequentlyintegrated into nanoplasmoid bubbles. In some embodiments the outputfrom the nanobubble generator is coupled to the fluid input of theelectrolytic cell, channeling some or all of the output back through thesystem.

An electrolytic cell utilized in a system of the inventive concept canhave any suitable configuration. For example, an electrolytic cell canbe configured as a reservoir that includes at least one anode and atleast one cathode. Such an anode or cathode can be configured as plate,coil, rod, disc, sphere, or any suitable shape. Alternatively, anelectrolytic cell can be configured as a pipe or tube through whichfluid moves in passing through the system. In such an embodiment thepipe or tube can include one or more anode and/or cathode. Such anodesand cathodes can be in the form of an electrode that intrudes into thepath of fluid flow. Alternatively, such anodes and cathodes can beintegrated into or form part of a wall of the pipe or tube. In stillother embodiments such anodes and cathodes can have a cylindricalconformation similar to that of the pipe or tube, but having a smallerdiameter and positioned centrally within the pipe or tube. In apreferred embodiment the electrolytic cell is provided as a coiled pipeor tube having a first diameter, within which at least one anode and atleast one cathode are provided in the form of cylinders having secondand third diameters that are smaller than the first diameter. In such anembodiment an anode and cathode pair can be provided as set of nestingcylinders arranged around a common central axis, with one of either theanode or cathode having a smaller diameter than the other member of thepair.

As noted above, in some embodiments the nanobubble generator is providedwith a gas in addition to the circulating fluid. Such a gas can beprovided from a reservoir (such as a pressurized tank) or generated insitu (for example, by electrolysis or treatment of air with zeolites).Suitable gases include air, O₂, H₂, N₂, CO, CO₂, HOH, NO, and noblegases. Such gases can be incorporated into nanobubbles and hence intonanoplasmoids of nanoplasmoid bubbles.

Additional embodiments of systems of the inventive concept canincorporate elements of the systems described in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, 3, and4. For example, a system can include an electrolytic cell and atransducer in addition to a nanobubble generator and a source ofpressure differential. Similarly, a system can include an electrolyticcell, a magnetic field source, and a transducer in addition to ananobubble generator and a source of pressure differential. In otherembodiments, a system can include an electrolytic cell, an electricalfield source, and a transducer in addition to a nanobubble generator anda source of pressure differential. In yet other embodiments, a systemcan include an electrolytic cell, an electrical field source, and amagnetic field source in addition to a nanobubble generator and a sourceof pressure differential.

In some embodiments of the inventive concept the system includes areservoir that receives a fluid suspension of nanobubbles and/ornanoplasmoids from a system output and returns some or all of the fluidsuspension to the system for re-processing. Such a reservoiradvantageously permits recycling of the treated fluid and generation ofhigh concentrations of nanobubbles/nanoplasmoids. In embodiments wherethe system is being utilized for therapeutic purposes such a reservoircan be configured to submerge all or part of an individual in need oftreatment. For example, such a reservoir can be in the form of atherapeutic bath in which an individual can submerge a limb in need oftreatment, or submerge themselves entirely or nearly entirely. Such areservoir can additionally include components that increase patientcomfort, such as a heater to adjust the temperature of the treated fluidand/or a recirculating pump that directs the treated fluid from outletsin the form of therapeutic ‘jets’.

It should be appreciated that systems of the inventive concept caninclude additional features, such as mechanisms for the addition ofsalts and/or other chemical compounds to the fluid being treated.Suitable salts include sodium salts, calcium salts, magnesium salts,ferric salts, and ferrous salts. Suitable chemical compounds includeemollients, skin moisturizers, surfactants, detergents, oxidizing agents(such as peroxides), reducing agents, and pharmaceutical compounds.

As noted above, systems of the inventive concept can include ananobubble generator. In some embodiments nanoplasmoid generation occurswithin the nanobubble generator; in such instances the nanobubblegenerator is equivalent to a nanoplasmoid generator. Within the contextof this application a nanobubble is understood to be a bubble having amean diameter of less than 1 μm. Similarly, a nanoplasmoid is understoodto be a plasmoid having a mean maximum diameter of less than 1 μm. Inpreferred embodiments of the inventive concept a nanoplasmoid has atoroidal shape, and is encapsulated within a nanobubble as ananoplasmoid bubble that is suspended within a liquid. A schematicdepiction of such a nanoplasmoid is shown in FIG. 5, which shows ananoplasmoid bubble (500) that includes a nanobubble (520) thatencapsulates at least one nanoplasmoid (510).

Nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generators utilized in systems and methods ofthe inventive concept can have a modular construction, and include twoor more mixing plates. Each mixing plate has a substantially planaraspects and incorporates features that apply physical stress to a fluidflowing through the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator. An example ofsuch a mixing plate is a vortex mixing plate, and example of which isshown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. FIG. 6A depicts a cross section of an exampleof a vortex mixing plate (610). FIG. 6B depicts an orthogonal view of anexample of a vortex mixing plate (610). Such a plate includes an inletportion (615) that reduces in size towards a narrow outlet. Such anarrow outlet can have a minimum dimension of about 0.1 μm, about 0.2μm, about 0.5 μm, about 0.8 μm, about 1 μm, about 2 μm, about 5 μm,about 8 μm, about 10 μm, about 20 μm, about 50 μm, about 80 μm, about0.1 mm, about 0.2 mm, about 0.5 mm, about 0.8 mm, about 1 mm, about 2mm, about 5 mm, about 8 mm, about 10 mm, of more than about 10 mm. Thenarrow outlet is arranged tangentially to a central cavity (620), whichcan be circular. The inlet portion can be ovoid, partially ovoid, orfoliate, and in some embodiments is asymmetrical. This arrangementimparts a swirling or circular motion to fluid entering the centralcavity. Passage through the narrow outlet, transition to the relativelylow pressure environment of the central cavity, and rotational movementwithin the cavity facilitate the formation of nanobubbles and/ornanoplasmoid bubbles. It should be appreciated that such vortex mixingplates can be mounted within an assembled nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator in different orientations, so as to produce circular flow indifferent directions.

Another example of a mixing plate is a shear mixing plate. An example ofa shear mixing plate is shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. FIG. 7A depicts across section of an exemplary shear mixing plate (710). FIG. 7B depictsan orthogonal view of an exemplary shear mixing plate (710). A shearmixing plate can include an inlet (715, 720) and an outlet (720, 715)that are joined by a series of two or more shear mixing segments (725,730). Each shear mixing segment includes a narrow inlet and a narrowoutlet that are joined by an expansion region. Arranged in series, thenarrow outlet of one shear mixing segment is connected to the narrowinlet of the subsequent shear mixing segment. In a preferred embodimentsthe linked shear mixing segments are arranged in a serpentine, coiled,or spiral arrangement that connects the inlet to the outlet. In someembodiments the inlet (715) is located near the periphery of the shearmixing plate and the outlet (720) is located centrally. In otherembodiments the outlet (720) is located near the periphery of the shearmixing plate and the inlet (715) is located centrally.

In other embodiments a shear mixing plate can include a plurality ofapertures or through-holes, through which fluid being processed passes.FIG. 8 depicts an example of such a shear mixing plate, in which aplurality of circular apertures or through-holes are arranged in lineargroups, which are in turn radially arranged around a portion of theshear mixing plate, which can include or not include an additionalaperture or through-hole. Although depicted as arranged around thecenter of the shear mixing plate, such an arrangement of through holescan be positioned off-center.

FIG. 9 depicts another embodiment of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which a plurality of foliate or approximatelylachrymiform apertures or through holes are arranged radially around aportion of the shear mixing plate. Such foliate or approximatelylachrymiform apertures can be of the same or different sizes. Althoughdepicted as arranged around the center of the shear mixing plate, suchan arrangement of through holes can be positioned off-center.

FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which a plurality of foliate or approximatelylachrymiform apertures or through holes are arranged symmetricallyaround a linear portion of the shear mixing plate. Such foliate orapproximately lachrymiform apertures can be of the same or differentsizes. Although depicted as arranged around a midline of the shearmixing plate, such an arrangement of through holes can be positioned offof the midline.

FIG. 11 depicts another embodiments of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which a plurality of linear apertures or slots arearranged in a parallel fashion and oriented about 90° from an extensionof the shear mixing plate. Such linear apertures or slots can be of thesame or different lengths, and can be evenly or unevenly spaced.Although depicted as positioned in a symmetrical arrangement across theshear mixing plate, such an arrangement of through holes can beasymmetric.

FIG. 12 depicts another embodiments of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which a plurality of linear apertures or slots arearranged in a radial fashion about a portion of the shear mixing plate.Such linear apertures or slots can be of the same or different lengths,and can be evenly or unevenly spaced. Although depicted as positionedaround a central portion of the shear mixing plate, such an arrangementof through holes can be positioned off-center.

FIG. 13 depicts another embodiments of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which a plurality of linear apertures or slots arearranged in a parallel fashion and oriented about 90° from those of theshear mixing plate shown in FIG. 11. Such linear apertures or slots canbe of the same or different lengths, and can be evenly or unevenlyspaced. Although depicted as positioned in a symmetrical arrangementacross the shear mixing plate, such an arrangement of through holes canbe asymmetric.

FIG. 14 depicts another embodiment of a shear mixing plate of theinventive concept, in which the shear mixing plate has a single apertureor through-hole having a plurality of acute angles. Such a singeaperture or though-hole can have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or morethan 10 acute angled portions. In a preferred embodiment such acuteangle portions are distributed symmetrically around the periphery of theaperture of through-hole, however in some embodiments the distributioncan be asymmetric. Although depicted as positioned centrally on theshear mixing plate, such a single aperture or through-hole can bepositioned off center.

As noted above, a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventiveconcept can be constructed from a number of such mixing plates assembledin a modular fashion. In a preferred embodiment one or more centermixing plate(s) and one or more shear mixing plate(s) is used. In thefinal assembly the mixing plates can be selected, ordered, and orientedas needed for the scale of the system. In some embodiments, in theassembled nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator adjacent center and/or shearmixing plates are separated by a distribution plate (810, 820). Such adistribution plate (810, 820) can have a central opening (815) (see FIG.15A) or a peripheral opening (825) (see FIG. 15B), wherein such openingpermit the passage of fluid.

A nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator can include an inlet plate (900),which can include features of the vortex mixing plate, such as a foliateinlet (910) and a central cavity (920) in addition to an inlet for fluidfrom outside of the assembled nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator. In someembodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, an inlet plate (900)can support two fluid inlets (930, 940) and can be utilized in ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator that includes two different sets ofmixing plates. In such embodiments one fluid inlet can be used tointroduce a liquid while the remaining fluid inlet is used to introducea gas. FIG. 16A shows a cross section of an example of such an inletplate. FIG. 16B shows an orthogonal view of an example of such an inletplate.

In still other embodiments a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator canterminate in a nozzle assembly (1000). An example of a nozzle assemblyis shown in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C. Such a nozzle assembly (1000)provides an expansion chamber (1010), which narrows to a constriction(1020) that subsequently opens to a flared outlet (1030). FIG. 17A showsan example of a nozzle assembly in an end-on view. FIG. 17B shows anexample of a nozzle assembly in a side view. FIG. 17C shows anorthogonal view of such a nozzle assembly.

As noted above, a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the inventiveconcept can be of modular design, assembled from components as describedabove. In a preferred embodiment the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generatorincludes two sets of mixing plate components, arranged in a symmetricalmanner to provide a dual system. An exploded view of such an embodimentis shown in FIG. 18, with individual elements labeled as in FIGS. 6A,6B, 7A, 7B, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17A, 17B, and 17C. As shown, a singlecentrally placed inlet plate is in fluid communication with shear mixingplates on each side via a set of distribution plates that each have acentral opening. Each of these shear mixing plates is in turn in fluidcommunication with a corresponding vortex mixing plate via adistribution plate with a peripheral opening. Each of these vortexmixing plates is in fluid communication with another vortex mixing plateof opposing orientation, and the final vortex mixing plate is coupled toa nozzle assembly.

An alternative embodiment of a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator isshown in FIG. 19, which incorporates shear mixing plates as shown inFIGS. 8 to 14. The upper portion of the figure shows an exploded,orthogonal view of a first portion of a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator assembled from a nozzle (1000), a set of shear mixing plateswith multiple apertures (1910, 1920, 1930, 1940, 1950), a shear mixingplate with a single aperture (1960), and a vortex mixing plate (610).These are arranged in a linear series and are in fluid communicationwith each other. The lower portion of FIG. 19 provides an exploded,orthogonal view of the remaining portion of the nanoplasmoid generator,which includes a shear mixing plate with a single aperture (1960), aseries of shear mixing plates with a plurality of apertures (1950, 1940,1930, 1920, 1910), and a nozzle (1000). These are arranged in a linearseries and are in fluidic communication with each other.

The vortex mixing plate (610) provides fluid communication between thetwo adjacent shear mixing plates (1960). These portions of the devicecan be coupled in series (e.g. joined by the vortex mixing plate) or canbe separate portions that joined by a fluid channel (e.g. a pipe, tube,or conduit). While this example provides a specific combination andarrangement of shear mixing plates, it should be appreciated that othercombinations and arrangements are also contemplated, including greateror smaller number of shear mixing plates, arrangement in a differentorder, exclusion of one or more types of shear mixing plate, and/orduplication of one or more types of mixing plates.

Although depicted in FIG. 18 with a duplicate set of 3 mixing plates andwith duplicates of six different shear mixing plates in FIG. 19, itshould be appreciated that the modular construction of thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator permits a wide variety ofconfigurations. Inventors contemplate that a nanobubble/nanoplasmoidgenerator of the inventive concept can incorporate from 3 mixing platesto 3,000 or more mixing plates, as necessary. A drawing of an exemplaryassembled nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator with fluid lines coupled tothe fluid inlets is shown in FIG. 20.

In operation, a fluid (for example, water) is introduced into ananobubble/nanoplasmoid generator of the system at a pressuredifferential of from 40 psi (2.8×10⁶ Pa) to 40,000 psi (2.8×10⁹ Pa).This can be accomplished using a conventional pump, for example a pumpconfigured for use with a commercial reverse osmosis system. At the sametime, a gas (such as air, O₂, H₂, electrolysis products, etc.) isintroduced into the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator at a similarpressure differential of from 40 psi (2.8×10⁶ Pa) to 40,000 psi (2.8×10⁹Pa). Flow rates and/or pressures of the applied fluid and gas can bemodulated or controlled during nanoplasmoid bubble generation, forexample in order to provide a nanoplasmoid bubbles in desired numbers orhaving a desired size and/or content. Flow rate and/or pressures can beadjusted manually or by using a control mechanism. Such adjustments canbe made in response to data from sensors, for instance an opticaldensity sensor, optical scatter sensor, zeta-potential sensor, pHsensor, conductivity sensor, and/or chemical species sensor. It shouldbe appreciated that excess gas (i.e. gas not incorporated intonanoplasmoid bubbles) can be captured and returned to thenanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator.

Fluid containing nanoplasmoid bubbles (i.e. nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension) is directed to a reservoir, which can be configured fortreatment of patients. The collected nanoplasmoid bubble suspension canbe directed from the reservoir back to the system for additionalprocessing. This recycling of the nanoplasmoid bubble suspensionprovides additional control over the composition and size of thesuspended nanoplasmoid bubbles, as well as providing control over thenumber of nanoplasmoid bubbles per mL of such a suspension. Thisrecycling can be performed for periods ranging from 1 minute to 8 hours.Typically recycling can be performed for about 1 hour.

In typical use, a system of the inventive concept configured as shown inFIG. 1A and in which recycling of the nanoplasmoid bubble suspensionprepared using deionized water was performed for 50 minutes provided upto 2.4×10⁸ nanoplasmoid bubbles per mL of suspension. Samples takenprior to treatment (FIG. 21A) and after such treatment (FIG. 21B) showthat the nanoplasmoid bubbles generated have the followingcharacteristics:

Mean diameter: 119.4 nm Standard Deviation:  53.1 nm Mode ofdistribution:  93.2 nmThe Applicant notes that both the mean diameter and standard deviationof said diameter of the nanoplasmoid bubbles so produced aresignificantly smaller than those of nanobubbles produced by prior artapparatus under similar conditions.

As noted above, nanoplasmoid bubble suspensions produced by systems ofthe inventive concept have been found to have therapeutic uses. Withoutwishing to be bound by theory, the inventors believe that therapeuticeffects are provide by both species generated during nanoplasmoid bubblegeneration (for example, peroxides, O₃, H₂, etc.) and physicalproperties of the nanoplasmoid bubbles so generated, which enhanceperfusion into tissues. Benefits can be realized by consumption of thenanoplasmoid bubble suspension (i.e. by drinking as a beverage) and/orby immersion in the nanoplasmoid bubble suspension. Surprisingly,Inventors have found that immersion in a nanoplasmoid bubble suspensioncan provide improvement in systemic and/or topical disease states.Inventors have found that numerous skin conditions (including topicalfungal infections, slow-healing wounds, wrinkles, abnormally dry skin,eczema, psoriasis, and skin carcinoma) can be reduced or eliminated bytopical treatment with a nanoplasmoid bubble suspension as generated bya system of the inventive concept. Such improvement can be realizedusing a treatment schedule of daily exposure to a nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension for a period of at least 20 minutes, at intervals of fromthree times a day to once a week, and/or for a period of about 30 to 90days.

Other uses of nanoplasmoid bubble suspensions include sanitizationand/or disinfection of surfaces and equipment (for example, medical anddental equipment, personal care items, food preparation equipment,etc.). Nanoplasmoid bubble suspension can also be utilized to purifycontaminated water, for example by removal and/or oxidation of organicmolecules, flotation and subsequent removal of particulates, and/orenhancement of natural (for example, biological) breakdown processes.Similarly, the introduction of nanoplasmoid bubbles into commercialorganic liquids (such as industrial lubricants) can prevent or retarddecomposition of such liquids. In some embodiments, nanoplasmoid bubblesuspensions are used to treat the surface of a material, for example bypartial or complete immersion or by application of a stream, spray,and/or mist that includes nanoplasmoid bubbles. Such treatment can, forexample remove a biofilm from a surface, and/or prevent or retard itsformation.

In other embodiments, consumption of a beverage or food that includesnanoplasmoid bubbles can modify aspects of an animal's body chemistry ina beneficial fashion. For example, consumption of a liquid that includesa nanoplasmoid bubble suspension by birds can reduce the content oftoxic ammonia found in their droppings. This reduction simplifies careof domestic fowl and improves local environmental conditions.

In some embodiments of the inventive concept, a system is provided inwhich a nanoplasmoid bubble generator as described above is fluidicallycoupled with a secondary functional system, such that a nanoplasmoidbubble suspension is provided to the secondary functional system thataids in its function. For example, a nanoplasmoid bubble generator ofthe inventive concept can be fluidically coupled with a water sanitationor filtration system, thereby reducing fouling and improving thesanitation function. Suitable secondary functional systems include awater filtration system, a water purifying system (e.g. a system forproducing potable water), a desalination system, a water heating system,a steam generator, a water cooling system, a sanitation system, a powerwasher, a laundry cleaning system, a dishwasher, a car wash, and/or avacuum cleaner. In some instances, the use of a nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension in such systems improves their capabilities in providingtheir respective functions. In other instances, the nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension can be used to treat materials dislodged during cleaningand/or other waste generated by the secondary functional system.

In other embodiments of the inventive concept, a nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension as described above is utilized in a manufacturing process. Insome embodiments the nanoplasmoid bubble suspension is utilized in themanufacture of liquid chemical products, such as paint, nail polish,perfumes and/or colognes, fuels, industrial (e.g. non-edible) oils, andcleaning products. In other embodiments the nanoplasmoid bubblesuspension is utilized in the manufacture of consumable products, suchas foods, beverages, alcohol, edible oils, proteins, and ice.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many moremodifications besides those already described are possible withoutdeparting from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subjectmatter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of theappended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification andthe claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possiblemanner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises”and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements,components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that thereferenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized,or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are notexpressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at leastone of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . andN, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from thegroup, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of manufacturing a fluid-containing product, comprising: generating a nanoplasmoid bubble suspension utilizing a nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator configured to form a suspension of a second fluid in a first fluid wherein elements of the second fluid in the suspension have a mean diameter of less than 1 μm, and that is fluidically coupled to an electrolytic cell or a pressure transducer; and a source of a pressure differential that is in fluid communication with the electrolytic cell and the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator, wherein the source of the pressure differential is positioned and configured to move the first fluid through the system; and, supplying the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid suspension to a process for the manufacture of a product comprising a fluid.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the nanobubble/nanoplasmoid generator comprises: an electrolytic cell; a first vortex mixing plate comprising a first central circular cavity and a first aperture in fluid communication with the first central circular cavity, wherein the first aperture is configured as an asymmetric folium having a first narrow terminus, wherein the first narrow terminus is oriented in a first radial direction relative to the first central circular cavity; a shear mixing plate comprising a second aperture that is in fluid communication with the first central circular cavity, wherein the second aperture comprises a second narrow terminus, wherein the second narrow terminus is fluidically coupled to a shear mixing segment, wherein the shear mixing segment comprises a first shear region comprising a first narrow inlet, a first expansion region, and a first narrowed outlet and a second shear region comprising a second narrow inlet fluidically coupled to the first narrow outlet, a second expansion region, and a second narrow outlet; a second vortex mixing plate comprising a second central circular cavity and a third aperture in fluid communication with the first shear mixing plate and the second central circular cavity, wherein the third aperture is configured as an asymmetric folium having a third narrow terminus, wherein the third narrow terminus is oriented in a second radial direction relative to the second central circular cavity; a third center vortex plate comprising a third central circular cavity and a fourth aperture in fluid communication with the second central circular cavity and the third central circular cavity, wherein the fourth aperture is configured as an asymmetric folium having a fourth narrow terminus, wherein the fourth narrow terminus is oriented in a third radial direction relative to the third central circular cavity, and wherein the third radial direction is in opposition to the second radial direction; and, an inlet plate in fluid communication with a source of a first fluid, a source of a second fluid, and the first vortex mixing plate.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first fluid comprises water.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second fluid is a gas derived from electrolysis.
 5. The method of 1 wherein the product comprises a fluid chemical product selected from the group consisting of paint, nail polish, perfume, cologne, fuel, industrial oil, and a cleaning product.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the fluid-containing product comprises a consumable product selected from the group consisting of a food, a beverage, an alcohol, an edible oil, a protein, and ice.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the fluid-containing product is a therapeutic suspension. 